Karen J. Belcher

Marion- KAREN J. BELCHER, age 61, of Marion, passed away at 10:15pm on Friday, September 28, 2007 at Heartland Regional Medical Center in Marion. Karen was born in Herrin on December 15, 1945, the daughter of Oliver and Esther (Watson) Irwin. She married Frank Belcher in Benton, Kentucky on June 16, 1989 and together, they shared eighteen years of marriage. He survives in Marion. Mrs. Belcher retired from Southern Illinois University in 1984, where she served as an administrative assistant in the communication/education department. Karens interests included gospel music, craftwork (particularly basket weaving), attending craft fairs, and keeping up with her favorite soaps, such as Passions and Desperate Housewives. She played the piano at several different area churches. Karen also enjoyed her travels, especially to Branson, Missouri. Survivors include: Her husband- Frank Belcher of Marion, IL Two daughters- Susan Lynn and Paul Graham of Columbia, SC Pam and Bill Furrow of Hampton, VA Eight Grandchildren Two sisters- Sally and Dave Ball of Herrin, IL Julie Irwin of San Francisco, CA Numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins Karen was preceded in death by her parents and one sister- Susan Irwin. Funeral services will be held at 11:00am on Tuesday, October 2, 2007 at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home in Marion, with Rev. Don Colson officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 10-11am on Tuesday, October 2, 2007 at the funeral home. For those who prefer, memorial donations may be made to the Womens Center in Marion. Envelopes will be available and accepted at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home; 800 N. Market Street; Marion, IL 62959. For more information, or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.hughesfuneralhomes.com